Firefighters at the scene at Winter Hill

Bosses at Lancashire Fire and Rescue say a change of wind direction meant that they were not able to scale back services as quickly as they first anticipated but expect the operation to be reduced as the week progresses.

A spokesman for the fire service said: "There has been a change of wind direction overnight and still we expect to remain at the site over the next few days.

"However, the fire is believed to have been contained."

Chief Fire Officer, Chris Kenny said of the incident:“This is a major and protracted incident and crews fighting the fire are working long hours in extremely hot and difficult conditions.

"Undeterred, their efforts have contained the fire, protected the vital infrastructure at the top of the hill and threats to life and property have been avoided.

"Alongside this incident we continue to respond to emergencies across the county, including a number of other wildfires, and keep people safe.

“I’m grateful to our retained colleagues, many of whom are working two jobs, and all the primary employers allowing them to provide a sustained response to the incident, and those working in the command support room to provide round the clock complex management of resources to deploy and relieve crews from Lancashire, Manchester and other areas of the country as part of our national resilience arrangements.

“Behind the scenes, service support, fire safety and training staff are working hard to support operational requirements and logistics, distribute supplies and inform the public, with many of you volunteering to help in a range of roles.

“The overwhelming support of the public demonstrates how well regarded you and the Service are in our communities. Everyone involved has gone above and beyond and I couldn’t be prouder.”

The news comes after children at nearby Children Rivington Foundation Primary School were forced to relocate to nearby Albany Academy.

Headteacher Mrs Annette revealed that the decision was made by the school on the advice of fire service personnel over concerns over temperatures and wind directions.

She said in a letter home to parents : "Again, we are extremely saddened to have to close school especially in such worrying circumstances.

"After advice, it was the only option left to ensure the safety of our children. At this moment in time the fires are not stable and very unpredictable which could mean that we would be placing children and staff in a dangerous position which would require us to constantly keep evacuating the building.

"We have no choice but to listen to the advice provided. School itself is filled with the smell of smoke and a layer of ash and it will need a good clean before the children return to it."

It is currently expected that the school will remain at the new location until at least Friday July, 13.